Olander Elementary Watch DOGS program connects fathers, schools

Jan. 29, 2013

Fathers are volunteering more at Olander Elementary School for Project-Based Learning through the school's new Watch DOG program. Since implementing the program last fall, more Olander fathers are helping out in the classroom, working with students in small groups and playing with kids during recess. / Courtesy of Deb Hooker

Dads and students play together during an activity at Olander Elementary School for Project-Based-Learning through the school's new Watch DOG program. / Courtesy of Deb Hooker

Want to join the Olander Watch DOGS?

When schools need volunteers, moms are often quick to respond. However, at Olander Elementary School for Project-Based Learning, it’s not unusual to see fathers helping in the classroom, playing with kiddos at recess or reading with students.

“It’s an opportunity for me to be involved in my daughter’s life,” said Aaron Baker, father of a third-grader. “It helps me be connected to her and her school.”

More fathers like Baker are volunteering at Olander through the school’s new Watch DOGS program, which asks fathers to make a commitment to spend at least one whole day at the elementary school. Watch DOGS (Dads of Great Students) is a national program that encourages fathers to be positive role models for students while enhancing school security.

“The main purpose is to bring dads or father figures into the school and increase their involvement,” Olander counselor Heidi Jensen said. “They also offer another set of eyes and ears at the school and if they saw a stranger, they could report it.”

Since implementing the program last fall, more than 100 fathers have signed up as Watch DOGS. Now dads are routinely seen high-fiving students in the hallway and assisting students in the classroom. The dads also join in on playground games, which Jensen believes has reduced student conflicts at recess.

“The dads follow the rules and help problem solve,” she said. “By having that adult presence, the game is safer and fairer.”

Baker, who signed up in October, has volunteered several days at the school. He believes that when he and other fathers become involved at school, his own child and other students notice.

“Being present is vital. Part of my job — and other dads’ — is to have a big impact on the lives of our children,” Baker said. “I hope the message I’m sending to my daughter is that ‘My dad cares about me and my life.’”

Echoed Baker’s daughter Natalie: “I really like Watch DOGS because my dad is in my school, and it’s really fun having him around.”

While kids benefit from seeing their dads in school, Jensen said fathers also learn from volunteering all day at school.

“It helps them relate to and understand their child’s typical day,” she said. “They see the pace of the day that their child has. After being here, they’ll say ‘That was so much fun, but now I’m exhausted.’”

Principal Brian Olver agreed the program has had a great impact on the school.

“The Watch DOGS program has increased male volunteerism immensely,” he said. “Kids and staff love having male role models in the building. They help out in so many important ways.”

And students at Olander think it’s just fun, having their dads around.

“I really like the Watch DOGS because there are dads here so you can have new playmates,” said second-grader Garrett Lee. “They are really funny, and they are awesome at football!”

Deb Hooker is a spokeswoman with Poudre School District. She and others occasionally contribute content to the Coloradoan’s weekly Education page.